The Sights, Sounds, and Smells of Christmas

The Christmas season is like no other. It is a season of excitement, joy, hope, and anticipation. There are many things that make Christmas unique for me. I define Christmas by the sights, sounds, and smells that I associate with the season.

There are many beautiful sights you see only at Christmas time. People are everywhere, rushing to and fro in an effort to find that perfect gift. The whole world seems covered in tiny white or colored lights; they are winking from almost every house on every street. The deep green Christmas trees are covered in them, and the brightly colored ornaments hanging on the trees reflect their soft glow. The limbs of the Christmas trees are drooping with the weight of the special treasures they hold, ornaments that hold special meaning in the hearts and minds of the families. Presents are heaped under the tree, the bright colors of the wrapping paper calling to the lucky person whose name is written on the tag. On every face there are looks of expectation and of exultation. The bright eyes of the children betray their joy and eagerness about the coming of Santa Claus. There are also nativity scenes in many yards and homes which tell the story of the birth of our Lord and Savior, the real reason we celebrate Christmas. The Christmas season is full of beauty and wonder.

The sounds of Christmas are a defining factor of the season. The beautiful Christmas carols sung in every church and by carolers riding up and down the streets carry through the crisp, cold air. Excited voices go on and on about what they are buying for whom and what they want from Santa Claus this year. Bells are ringing in the churches and many of the homes. The jolly "Ho, Ho, Ho" of Santa Claus echoes through the malls and department stores. Parents are threatening children with finding only coal in their stocking if they do not behave, but it is never a whole-hearted threat. Christmas is full of the sounds of excitement and joy.

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